Jewish Medical Law Guidelines

Organ Donation

Judaism holds life as being sacred. For this reason, donating an organ to save a life is one of the highest acts of virtue one can do

An amazing article written by Rabbi Aron Moss, Rabbi of Nefesh Shule in Sydney, can be read here.

Organ Donation Policy by the Sydney Beth Din

Blood Transfusion

While you are alive, to donate an organ that will replenish themselves, like bone marrow or blood, in order to save or vastly improve another life is one of the greatest acts you could do.

Policy Guidelines

There is nothing in Jewish law preventing any Blood transfusion, donation or even collection of blood.

End of Life

Even during the most difficult situations, our Torah is here to guide us and strengthen us.

Policy Guidelines

Jewish law considers life of almost infinite value. One moment of life is considered as valuable as 70 years of life. Therefore, any decisions in relation to treatment or withdrawal of treatment, even at end of life, have great moral significance. As such, euthanasia both active and passive are strictly forbidden in Jewish law.

As these questions can be very delicate and halachic rules nuanced, please seek Rabbinic advice in these situations.

Body Parts

Does Judaism bury missing body parts? What if some body parts where removed by coroner?

Policy Guidelines

Every attempt should be made to recover all body parts including blood for the purposes of bringing to a Jewish burial.

In relation to amputations, please seek Rabbinic advice.

Suicide in Jewish tradition 

In Jewish law, suicide is generally considered to be a tragic act that goes against the value of preserving and protecting life. While it is prohibited, Jewish tradition recognizes that mental illness may impact decision-making and show compassion in those cases. Burial restrictions have been historically present, but contemporary Jewish communities approach the issue with sensitivity. Healing and support are prioritized, including providing resources and counselling for individuals struggling with mental health. It is important to seek professional help and support if dealing with thoughts of suicide.

Coroner & Jewish Law Policy.

In Jewish law, the guidelines around autopsies and the role of the coroner can vary depending on different circumstances and interpretations. Here are some general principles:

1. Respect for the Body: Jewish tradition places great importance on treating the body with dignity and respect, even after death. As such, unnecessary autopsies or actions that would desecrate the body are generally discouraged.

2. Preservation of Life: Saving and preserving life takes precedence over many other religious observances. In situations where an autopsy may be necessary to determine the cause of death and help save lives (such as in cases of criminal investigations or medical research), Jewish law may allow for exceptions to the general prohibition.

3. Consent and Necessity: Jewish law generally requires consent from the deceased or their family for an autopsy to be performed. However, if there is a compelling legal or medical necessity, such as to determine the cause of death or prevent harm to others, the consent requirement may be waived in certain cases.

4. Expert Opinion: Rabbinic authorities and medical experts knowledgeable in Jewish law (halacha) are often consulted to provide guidance on specific situations involving autopsies and the role of the coroner. Their expertise helps balance the respect for the deceased and the pursuit of justice or medical advancements.

It’s important to note that individual interpretations and practices may vary among different Jewish communities and denominations. In cases where there are questions or conflicts regarding autopsies and the role of the coroner, seeking guidance from knowledgeable religious authorities is advised.

Ultimately, the decision regarding autopsies and involvement with the coroner’s office may involve balancing the principles of respecting the body, preserving life, consent, and legal or medical necessity, while considering the specific circumstances and religious beliefs of the individuals involved.

Desecrating the Shabbat and Yom Tov

There are many things which are forbidden irrespective of the fact that they are powered by electricity or not, simply because they perform functions that are forbidden on Shabbat.

When life is in danger even when that risk is remote, all prohibitions are suspended and everything may be done to heal the patient and preserve life. This includes even if the patient is terminal. Anything and everything may be done in Shabbat or Yom Tov (Festivals) to lengthen life.

A person when life is not in danger and is in Hospital (i.e. visitors, spouse, family member or patient), should try to avoid breaking Shabbat. Preferably, turning on and off lights and other activities should be performed by a Gentile Police officer or staff member. Any document or items that needs to be signed should be done after Shabbat or Festivals or signed with a left hand.

Click here for more information. 

Fasting on Yom Kippur and other fast days

Policy Guidelines:

This includes no fasting including on Yom Kippur, if life is in danger.

As a general rule a woman within 3 days of giving birth, may not fast even on Yom Kippur. Speak to a expert Rabbi for further advice.

A person when life is not in danger and is in Hospital (i.e. visitors, spouse, family member or patient), should try to avoid breaking Shabbat. Preferably, turning on and off lights and other activities should be performed by a Gentile Police officer or staff member. Any document or items that needs to be signed should be done after Shabbat or Festivals or signed with a left hand.